When it comes to classic cocktails, the Whiskey Old Fashioned should be on the top of everyone's list. Personally, if I am at a bar, (and it is not crowded!) an Old Fashioned or a Manhattan is my go-to cocktail of choice. But, what if you aren't at a bar? What if you just got off the water, its chilly and those lukewarm Coors Banquets you left in the trunk of your car don't sound appealing? What if you actually are wanting something a bit stronger than a 4.2% beer. There are days when I sure as hell do. And, for this reason, we thought that this would be a fantastic opportunity to bring to you all Trouts Tailgate Cocktails. For this little video mini-series, we partnered with Locke + Co Distilling. For this episode, we decided to make the Tailgate version of a Classic Rye Old Fashioned. This is a recipe that can be made quickly with less than five ingredients, you can even pick it up at the McDonald's drive-through or Circle K gas station at 5 am before you hit the river. Heck, you could even make this tonight.

MAKES 1 SERVING

• 2 oz Locke + Co. Aspen Aged Rye
• A spoonful of Maple Syrup
• 2 slices of an orange peel
• Can of Sparkling Grapefruit Water - preferably La Croix (the best seltzer on the market)

The making of this cocktail is pretty simple. In your favorite stainless steel pint glass or Yeti Mug, you will first put in your 2 oz of Locke + Co. Aspen Aged Rye and add your spoonful of maple syrup and stir both ingredients. Sure you may get some side looks when you go through the drive-through and ask for extra maple syrup packets but, little do they know by using maple syrup you are replacing your standard simple syrup ingredient found in most Old Fashioneds. On

Once combined, you will take your first orange peel and squeeze to express your orange oils. Next, take your second orange peel and rub it around the rim of your glass or mug. This gives you that classic orange flavor without the use of Angostura bitters. Remember folks, we are making tailgate cocktails, you could make this while you still have your waders and boots on.

And last but not least Owen's special ingredient is Sparkling Grape Fruit Water. By adding the grapefruit you are expressing more flavor notes in the Aspen Aged Rye Whiskey and creating a more refreshing beverage after a long day on the water or rowing the drift boat. How much you add is up to you but, we recommend 4 oz -8 oz.

If you are more of a video person, the video version of this Tailgate Old Fashioned can be found right below! Let us know how, where and when you guys are enjoying your tailgate cocktails this fall by tagging us @troutsflyfishing on Instagram! We have a few more tailgate cocktails we will be releasing over the next few weeks so stay tuned to our Instagram page for more!